What do you know about Vortec Heads??? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

FirstGen · 03-16-2004, 01:35 AM

I've been hearing alot about the newer Vortec heads whats the big deal with them?

One of my big questions is if they will just bolt on an older SBC with the two piece main seal? And if so has Chevy used standard brakets mounting holes in the heads all the way back till now (will my old alt, PS, etc bolt right up)?

From my limited research it looks like these will work on just about any SBC added that you get a Vortec intake to match...

Tell me any pluses or minuses to these things also guys.

Thanks!

bpmcgee · 03-16-2004, 01:42 AM

First,

You're right on target. They will bolt up to any block, and the two holes in the end are just like the old style heads. You'll need a new intake, and of course, new valve covers.

The chamber on these is smaller than normal truck heads -- 67cc versus 76cc. That will mean if you just try to bolt them up, your compression ratio is going to go WAY up, and you'll find yourself spending more on gas.

The reason people like them is that the chamber is quite efficient -- you should expect a mileage and power increase. Further, some author have suggested that they are also better at dissipating heat, letting them run higher compression ratios safely.

The down sides -- these heads burn FAST. That means they really dislike timing advance. Be careful, you can ruin an engine quick with detonation. The outer flange is judged by some to be a little on the thin side -- be careful for cracks there if you're buying a used set. And, because they're so popular, they're fairly expensive for stock heads -- about $400.

I built an engine for my Blazer with aftermarket Vortec heads. 30 miles on it, so far so good!

Brian

FirstGen · 03-16-2004, 01:49 AM

I was considering putting a set on a mild 350 or 383 would this be a good head for decent economy and still have some power?
Thanks

68 Suburban · 03-16-2004, 06:56 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bpmcgee

The chamber on these is smaller than normal truck heads -- 67cc versus 76cc.

Arent they 64cc?

gldevall · 03-16-2004, 10:33 AM

Yes they are 64 cc. ANd firstgen there's a truck down here with abuilt 383 with vortec heads putting 421HP to the rear wheels.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ght=killer+383

FirstGen · 03-16-2004, 10:35 AM

Nice! With the 1.94 valves or did he cut them to 2.02s? What do you think the higest compression ration you could run with Vortec heads would be on 93 octane? I was thinking like 10.5:1?
Thanks guys

03-16-2004, 01:35 AM	#1
FirstGen Just Don't Stop! Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Dallas Posts: 1,239	What do you know about Vortec Heads??? I've been hearing alot about the newer Vortec heads whats the big deal with them? One of my big questions is if they will just bolt on an older SBC with the two piece main seal? And if so has Chevy used standard brakets mounting holes in the heads all the way back till now (will my old alt, PS, etc bolt right up)? From my limited research it looks like these will work on just about any SBC added that you get a Vortec intake to match... Tell me any pluses or minuses to these things also guys. Thanks! __________________ 1968 C10 build in process TT LSA/6L90e/9"

03-16-2004, 01:49 AM	#3
FirstGen Just Don't Stop! Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Dallas Posts: 1,239	I was considering putting a set on a mild 350 or 383 would this be a good head for decent economy and still have some power? Thanks __________________ 1968 C10 build in process TT LSA/6L90e/9"

03-16-2004, 10:33 AM	#5
gldevall Registered User Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Walker, LA Posts: 2,925	Yes they are 64 cc. ANd firstgen there's a truck down here with abuilt 383 with vortec heads putting 421HP to the rear wheels. http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ght=killer+383 __________________ Gary -1986 SWB: lowered 4/6, SOLD!!! -Best 1/4 mile: 14.51 @ 91.01 MPH -2001 Pewter Tahoe, billet grill, Corsa Sport Cat-back, K&N FIPK SOLD!!! -2004 Z-71 Extended cab with a flowmaster, BDS 6.5", 3" BL, 35x12.5x18 Trail Grapplers on Pro-Comp 18x9 wheels

03-16-2004, 10:35 AM	#6
FirstGen Just Don't Stop! Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Dallas Posts: 1,239	Nice! With the 1.94 valves or did he cut them to 2.02s? What do you think the higest compression ration you could run with Vortec heads would be on 93 octane? I was thinking like 10.5:1? Thanks guys __________________ 1968 C10 build in process TT LSA/6L90e/9"

03-16-2004, 01:42 AM	#2
bpmcgee Registered User Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Northern Illinois Posts: 2,181	First, You're right on target. They will bolt up to any block, and the two holes in the end are just like the old style heads. You'll need a new intake, and of course, new valve covers. The chamber on these is smaller than normal truck heads -- 67cc versus 76cc. That will mean if you just try to bolt them up, your compression ratio is going to go WAY up, and you'll find yourself spending more on gas. The reason people like them is that the chamber is quite efficient -- you should expect a mileage and power increase. Further, some author have suggested that they are also better at dissipating heat, letting them run higher compression ratios safely. The down sides -- these heads burn FAST. That means they really dislike timing advance. Be careful, you can ruin an engine quick with detonation. The outer flange is judged by some to be a little on the thin side -- be careful for cracks there if you're buying a used set. And, because they're so popular, they're fairly expensive for stock heads -- about $400. I built an engine for my Blazer with aftermarket Vortec heads. 30 miles on it, so far so good! Brian



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